Grass is greener at Wednesbury flats

Balconies complete with their own “grass” and striking floor-to-ceiling glass walls – residents are enjoying a taste of the high life following the £2.8million upgrade of their tower block.

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Work on the transformation of Russell House, in Wednesbury, began in August last year and has finished weeks ahead of schedule.

The project initially stalled due to the collapse of contractors Connaught and the withdrawal of government funding to Sandwell Council under the Decent Homes programme. But the authority ploughed forward with the work at the 77-home block in Holyhead Road.

While special wires have been put on the exterior of the building to deter pigeons, some residents can also take in views of the town from spruced up balconies with artificial grass, admire the view through their floor to ceiling windows or enjoy a cup of tea in the comfort of their new kitchens. Wednesbury ward councillor Olwen Jones said: “The changes look absolutely fantastic. Everyone is really pleased with the work that has been done. The builders have done a brilliant job0.”

Work that has taken place includes a new insulated cladding system, new windows and balcony panels and a new glazed front entrance.

There have also ben refurbishments to the lift, fire doors, a refuse-chute replacement and an improved landscaping scheme.